Getting Here and Around

The birthplace of Jesus is 15 minutes south of Jerusalem, although the ride seldom goes so quickly. This is because Bethlehem is part of the Palestinian Authority and set off from Jerusalem by the controversial security barrier that snakes roughly along the border with the West Bank. The wall is especially intimidating around the Bethlehem border crossing, as it stands taller than most of the surrounding buildings and is constructed of solid concrete. Graffiti artists have covered the Bethlehem side with demands for rights for Palestinians. British artist Banksy also left his mark, inspiring a falafel stand and souvenir stand named after him. As daunting as it seems, tourists with a foreign passport have no difficulty visiting Bethlehem. Simply show the cover of your passport and be whisked through, usually without a single question.